WBC Sightings 2012

30 December to 5 January 2013

A flock of seven Waxwings was seen along The Street, Gillingham, 1 January, and a flock of 17 was seen in a hedge beside the B1074 between Blundeston and Somerleyton, 4 January, while in the Rigbourne Hill area of Beccles two were seen on the 3rd, three on the 4th, and six on the 5th. A male Blackcap was present in gardens in Cherrywood, Harleston, 1 and 4 January. Lesser Redpolls were noted at Benstead Marshes, Mettingham, 30 December, Queen’s Highway, Oulton (two), 1 January, and Outney Common, Bungay and Carlton Marshes, 5 January. A Stonechat and a Cetti’s Warbler were recorded at Oulton Marshes, 1 January, with a further six Cetti’s Warblers at Carlton Marshes, 5 January. Bearded Tits were noted at Fritton Marshes, 30 December and 4 January, Castle Marsh, North Cove (three) and Burgh Castle (four), 1 January, and Carlton Marshes, 5 January, with Kingfishers at Carlton Marshes, 2 January, and Weybread GP (two), 5 January.

The Great White Egret was present at Haddiscoe Island all week. Little Egrets were seen at Oulton Marshes (two) and Shipmeadow Marshes, 1 January, Burgh Castle (five), 3 January, Haddiscoe Island (two), 4 January, and Mendham Marshes, 5 January, and single Bitterns were noted at Short Dam Level, Burgh St Peter, 30 December, and Thorpe Marshes, Haddiscoe, 2 January. A count of 304 Cormorants was made at the Fritton Decoy roost, 5 January. A flock of 500 Lapwings was present at Burgh Castle Flats, 3 January, a Woodcock was seen at Waveney Forest, Fritton, 4 January, and 20 Black-tailed Godwits were noted at Geldeston Marshes, 5 January.

The Rough-legged Buzzard was again present at Haddiscoe Island all week. Peregrines were seen at Haddiscoe Island, 30 and 31 December and 4 January, with two on 3 January, and Castle Marsh, North Cove, 1 January. A male Hen Harrier was recorded at Haddiscoe Island, 1, 3 and 4 January and Carlton Marshes, 4 January, with a ringtail at Haddiscoe Island, 5 January, while records of Marsh Harrier included a roost of 11 at Haddiscoe Island, 1 January, one at Carlton Marshes, 2 January, and one at Burgh Castle, 3 January. Four Short-eared Owls were noted at Haddiscoe Island, 4 January, while Barn Owls were reported from Homersfield, 31 December, Shotford Bridge, Weybread, 1 January, Shipmeadow Marshes, 1 and 2 January, Haddiscoe Island (five), 3 and 4 January, and Low Road, Harleston and Carlton Marshes, 5 January.

Bewick’s Swans were present on the flooded marshes between Bungay and Beccles, with ten at Shipmeadow, 30 December, decreasing to eight, 31 December to 2 January, and 12 at Geldeston Marshes, 5 January. A White-fronted Goose flew over Carlton Marshes, 5 January, while Pink-footed Geese were recorded at Camps Heath Marshes, Oulton (300), 1 January, Ashby (300 in flight), 3 January, and Haddiscoe Island (6000), 5 January. A count of 200 Teal was made at Burgh Castle Flats, 3 January, and a redhead Goosander was seen at Weybread GP, 5 January.

23 to 29 December

A Great White Egret was present at Haddiscoe Island, 23 and 27 to 29 December, while Little Egrets were noted by The Beck at Wortwell (three), 23 December, Haddiscoe Island and Denton, 27 December, and Harleston Marshes, 28 December. A Woodcock was seen at Waveney Forest, Fritton, 29 December.

The Rough-legged Buzzard was again present at Haddiscoe Island all week, and was joined by a Merlin, 27 December, and a Peregrine, 28 and 29 December. A ringtail Hen Harrier was seen at Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville, 25 December, while Marsh Harriers were noted at Carlton Marshes (two), 25 December, and Haddiscoe Island (five), 27 December. Barn Owls were recorded at Carlton Marshes, 25 December, Weybread GP, 27 December, Haddiscoe Island and Withersdale Street, 28 December, and Waveney Forest and Geldeston Marshes, 29 December.

Three Bewick’s Swans were present at Shipmeadow Marshes, 29 December, the feral Ruddy Shelduck was again seen at Haddiscoe Island, 26 December, and four Barnacle Geese were noted at Mendham Marshes, 28 December.

A flock 18 Lesser Redpolls was seen at Waveney Forest, Fritton, 23 December, and a Cetti’s Warbler was singing at Carlton Marshes, 25 December.

16 to 22 December

The Rough-legged Buzzard was present at Haddiscoe Island all week, and was joined by a Peregrine, 16 December, and a male Hen Harrier, 16 and 19 December. The male Hen Harrier was also seen at neighbouring Fritton Marshes, 18 December, while Marsh Harriers were noted at Haddiscoe Island (17) and Burgh Castle (three), 16 December. Also recorded at Haddiscoe Island were seven Short-eared Owls and three Barn Owls on 16 December.

A flock 17 Waxwings was seen by the allotments off Mendham Lane, Harleston, 18 December, while a flock of 18 was present at the junction of Banham Road and Rigbourne Hill Lane, 20 December, with this flock increasing to 20 the following day, and one was also noted along Annandale Drive, Beccles, 21 December. A Stonechat was seen at Haddiscoe Island, 17 December. Bearded Tits were recorded at Carlton Marshes, 16 December, and Haddiscoe Island (eight), 17 and 18 December, and Kingfishers at Haddiscoe Island (two) and Beccles Marshes, 17 December.

A flock of eight Bewick’s Swans flew west over Oulton Marshes, 16 December, and four were present at Geldeston Marshes, 18 December, while a flock of 2,000 Pink-footed Geese together with a feral Ruddy Shelduck were present at Haddiscoe Island, 17 December.Notable counts of ducks included 130 Wigeon at Oulton Marshes, 16 December, and 350 Teal at Fritton Decoy, 19 December. A Bittern was seen at Haddiscoe Island, 18 December, while Little Egrets were noted at Haddiscoe Island (three) and Oulton Marshes (two), 16 December.

Finally, a Green Sandpiper was seen at Haddiscoe Island, 16 December.

9 to 15 December

A Rough-legged Buzzard was seen at Haddiscoe Island, 15 December, with a Merlin also noted at this location and a Peregrine at Castle Marsh, North Cove on the same day. A Marsh Harrier was recorded at Beccles Marshes, 11 December, and a Barn Owl at Broome Marshes, 10 December.

Waxwings continued to be seen regularly in Beccles with 22 along Banham Road and four along London Road, 9 December, one at St Paul’s Close, 10 December, and two at St Anne’s Close, 11 December. A Kingfisher was noted at Carlton Marshes, 13 December.

Two Bewick’s Swans were seen at Geldeston Marshes, 15 December, and a flock of 210 Pink-footed Geese was present at Camps Heath Marshes, Oulton, 12 December.

A Green Sandpiper and four Redshanks were present at Flixton GP, 15 December, while Woodcocks were noted at Wicker Well, Somerleyton, 11 December, and Puddingmoor, Beccles (three), 15 December.

2 to 8 December

A flock of 17 Bewick’s Swans flew west over Castle Marsh, North Cove, 2 December, and a further flock of 27 flew west at Aldeby, 5 December. A count of 1,500 Pink-footed Geese was made at Haddiscoe Island, 8 December, while the Ross’ Goose of unknown origin was present at the same site, 5 and 6 December.

Two Waxwings were seen along St Paul’s Close, Beccles, 2 December, with one present, 5 December, while seven were noted along nearby Banham Road, Beccles, 6 December, with ten at the same location, 8 December. Other notable passerines included 150 Siskins and 10 Lesser Redpolls at North Cove SWT reserve, 2 December, 12 Bramblings, two Lesser Redpolls, 45 Yellowhammers and 50 Skylarks at Barsham Marshes and 150 Yellowhammers and 14 Bullfinches along Cut Throat Lane, Beccles, 6 December.

A Merlin and a Peregrine were seen at Haddiscoe Island, 2 December, with another Merlin recorded at Burgh Castle on the same day. Marsh Harriers were noted at Haddiscoe Island (five) and Belton Marshes, 2 December, and Beccles Marshes, 4 December. Four Short-eared Owls and five Barn Owls were recorded at Haddiscoe Island, 2 December, with a further Barn Owl at Burgh Castle on the same day.

Two Green Sandpipers and a Redshank were present at Flixton GP, 2 December, while single Woodcocks were noted at Herringfleet, 7 December, and Waveney Forest, Fritton the following day. A Bittern was seen at Fritton Marshes, 2 December, with two on 6 December, while Little Egrets were noted at Burgh Castle (three), 2 December, and Flixton (near Bungay), 4 December.

25 November to 1 December

A flock of eight Waxwings flew south at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe early afternoon on 1 December, while 20 Bramblings were present at Barsham Marshes, 30 November.

A Merlin was seen at Belton Marshes, 25 November, a Marsh Harrier at Thorpe Marshes, Haddiscoe, 1 December, with a Short-eared Owl hunting at nearby Haddiscoe Island on the same day.

18 to 24 November

Highlights included a flock of 20 Waxwings which flew south-west over Stanton Close, Beccles late morning on 21 November, and two unseasonable House Martins at St Olaves, 22 November. A Grey Wagtail was feeding by Shotford Bridge, Weybread and a flock of 60 Skylarks was seen at Barsham Marshes, 18 November, while a Cetti’s Warbler was noted at Carlton Marshes, 22 November. Bearded Tits were recorded at Burgh Castle (two) and Somerleyton Marshes (two), 24 November, and single Kingfishers at Weybread GP, 18 November, and Waveney Forest, Fritton, 24 November.

A male Hen Harrier was present on Haddiscoe Island, 22 and 24 November, and was joined by a Merlin, 22 November, and a Peregrine, eight Marsh Harriers, four Short-eared Owls and two Barn Owls, 24 November. Additional Marsh Harriers were seen at Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville, 20 November, and Somerleyton Marshes, 24 November, and Barn Owls at Lodge Farm, Barsham and Valley Farm Beccles, 18 November, and Earsham, 23 November.

A Green Sandpiper and a Woodcock were seen at Camps Heath Marshes, Oulton, 19 November, while Little Egrets were noted at Carlton Marshes, 20 November and on Haddiscoe Island (four), 24 November. Finally, the Ross’ Goose of unknown origin was again present on Haddiscoe Island, 19 November.

11 to 17 November

A Great White Egret flew south at Burgh Castle, 12 November.

A Ross’ Goose of unknown origin was present on Haddiscoe Island, 11, 13 and 14 November, and was accompanied by 4000 Pink-footed Geese, 13 November, and five Barnacle Geese, 14 November.

Raptors on Haddiscoe Island included a Peregrine, 11 November, with two, 13 November, a ringtail Hen Harrier, 13 and 14 November, three Buzzards, 12 November, and three Marsh Harriers, 15 November. Elsewhere, two Buzzards were seen at Flixton GP, 11 November, and Marsh Harriers were noted at Burgh Castle (12), 11 November, Beccles Marshes, 15 November, and Barsham Marshes the following day. Up to four Short-eared Owls were hunting on Haddiscoe Island from 11 to 15 November, with two Barn Owls, 13 November, while two Barn Owls were also seen at Belton Marshes, 11 November.

Records from Barsham Marshes included six Bramblings, two Bearded Tits, two Stonechats, 50 Yellowhammers and 75 Linnets, 16 November, with two Cetti’s Warblers the following day. Bearded Tits were also seen at Waveney Forest, Fritton (eight), 11 November, and Thorpe Marshes, Haddiscoe (six), 13 November, Stonechats at Haddiscoe Island (three), 14 November, and Castle Marshes, North Cove (two) and Oulton Dyke, 15 November, and a Cetti’s Warbler at Belton Marshes, 11 November. A Grey Wagtail was noted at Beccles Marshes, nine Siskins were seen at Fisher Row, Oulton, and Kingfishers were recorded at Oulton Marshes (two) and Waveney Forest, Fritton, 15 November.

4 to 10 November

Three late Swallows flew over Station Road, Barnby, 6 November. Two Waxwings were seen along Station Road, Beccles, 5 November, and either one of these or another flew over Roy’s car park later the same day. A Tree Sparrow visited a garden at Ilketshall St Margaret from 7 November.

28 October to 3 November

A late Swallow flew south at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe, 3 November, while winter migrants included six Bramblings in a Bungay garden, 2 November. A Bearded Tit was recorded at Fritton Marshes, 28 October.

A flock of 1,100 Pink-footed Geese was feeding in a field of winter barley at Ashby, 1st November, and a notable count of 90 Gadwall was made at Flixton GP, 3 November.

Finally, raptors included a Marsh Harrier at Fritton Marshes, 28 October, and a Buzzard at Aldeby, 3 November.

21 to 27 October

A group of Bewick’s Swans flew low south-west over Beccles calling in dense fog on the evening of 22 October. A Redshank was seen at Beccles Marshes, 23 October.

A Black Redstart was present at Barsham, 23 October, and a flock of 20 Fieldfares flew south-west over Beccles, 25 October. Finally, a Cetti’s Warbler was noted at Beccles Marshes, 23 October.

14 to 20 October

A flock of 300 Pink-footed Geese flew over Blundeston, 20 October.

Two Short-eared Owls were hunting at Haddiscoe Island and a Barn Owl was seen at Belton Marshes, 20 October. Marsh Harriers were noted at Haddiscoe Island (five) and Aldeby shooting lakes (two), 20 October, while Buzzards were recorded at Flixton GP (three) and Worlingham, 14 October.

Notable waders included an Avocet at Carlton Marshes, four Green Sandpipers at Flixton GP and a flock of 100 Golden Plovers by the A146 at Worlingham, 14 October, and a Green Sandpiper at Burgh Castle and two Curlews at Belton Marshes, 20 October. Little Egrets were noted at Burgh Castle (three) and Belton Marshes (two), 20 October.

7 to 13 October

A Yellow-browed Warbler was present in a private garden at Burgh Castle, 11 October, and another was seen at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe the following day. Late summer migrants included a Willow Warbler at Carlton Marshes and Swallows at Worlingham Staithe (six) and North Cove (four), 13 October. Bearded Tits were recorded at Carlton Marshes, 7 October, and Glebe Marshes, Burgh Castle, 13 October. A Chiffchaff and three singing Cetti’s Warblers were noted at Carlton Marshes, 9 October, and a Kingfisher at Beccles Marshes, 9 October.

A Peregrine was seen at Burgh Castle and two Buzzards at North Cove, 13 October, while Barn Owls were noted at Beccles Marshes, 9 October, and Burgh Castle, 13 October.

A flock of 375 Pink-footed Geese flew south over Blundeston, 13 October, while 20 Barnacle Geese flew over Beccles Marshes and a feral Ruddy Shelduck was seen at Barsham Marshes, 9 October.

30 September to 6 October

Late Hobbies were noted at Blundeston Marshes, St Olaves and Belton Marshes (two), 30 September. Two Marsh Harriers were seen at Carlton Marshes, 4 October, while Barn Owls were recorded at Beccles Marshes, 2 October, and Carlton Marshes, 6 October.

There was a notable influx of Jays into the region, part of a much wider large-scale arrival into eastern England, including 30 at Burgh Castle, 2 October. The first Redwings of the autumn were noted, with a count of 59 over Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe, 6 October. Late summer migrants included over one hundred House Martins feeding at Carlton Marshes, 3 October. A Lesser Redpoll was seen at Carlton Marshes, 5 October, a Tree Sparrow at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe the following day and single Grey Wagtails at Oulton Marshes and Herringfleet Marshes, 30 September, and Beccles football ground, 6 October. Bearded Tits were noted at Castle Marsh, North Cove (nine) and Glebe Marsh, Burgh Castle (eight), 6 October, Kingfishers at Somerleyton Marshes, Fritton Marshes (two) and Belton Marshes, 30 September, Beccles Marshes, 2 October, and Weybread GP, 3 October, and Cetti’s Warblers at Oulton Marshes and Somerleyton Marshes, 30 September, Beccles Marshes, 2 October, and Carlton Marshes (two), 4 October.

23 to 29 September

Three Whinchats were present at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe, 24 September, while Wheatears were recorded at Burgh St Peter, 27 September, and Carlton Marshes (four), 28 September.

A feral Ruddy Shelduck was noted at Burgh Castle, 24 to 27 September.

16 to 22 September

An early-returning Jack Snipe was seen at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe, 22 September, while a Green Sandpiper was present at Carlton Marshes, 19 September. Two Little Egrets were noted at Burgh Castle Flats, 21 September.

A Peregrine flew west over Barsham Drain late afternoon on 22 September.

A Kingfisher and a Cetti’s Warbler were noted at Beccles Marshes, 18 September, with another Kingfisher reported from Weybread GP, 22 September.

9 to 15 September

A Peregrine was seen at Earsham GP, 10 September, while Hobbies were noted at Flixton GP, 9 September and North Cove (three), 15 September.

Notable waders included three Common Sandpipers and a Green Sandpiper at Flixton GP, 9 September, with another Green Sandpiper at Earsham GP the following day, and five Bar-tailed Godwits at Burgh Castle Flats, 15 September. Little Egrets were noted at Earsham GP (two), 10 September and Castle Marsh, North Cove, 15 September.

2 to 8 September

An Osprey flew west over Carlton Marshes early morning on 4 September.

Passerine migrants included a Yellow Wagtail at Hemplands Farm, St James South Elmham, 2 September, a Willow Warbler at Carlton Marshes, 3 September, and a Whinchat at Somerleyton and a Wheatear at Flixton GP, 7 September.

Notable waders included a juvenile Greenshank at Flixton GP and 36 Curlews at Burgh Castle, 2 September, four Common Sandpipers at Flixton GP, 7 September, with Green Sandpipers at Flixton GP (two) and Hemplands Farm, St James South Elmham (two), 2 September.

26 August to 1 September

A Pied Flycatcher was a good find at Beccles Marshes, 26 August. It was accompanied by five Spotted Flycatchers, with two present on the 27th and one on the 28th. Single Kingfishers were noted at Beccles Marshes, 28 August and Carlton Marshes the following day.

Notable waders included a juvenile Greenshank at Flixton GP all week, a fly-over Golden Plover at Beccles Marshes, 28 August and a juvenile Ruff at Flixton GP, 31 August. Records of Green Sandpiper included two at Hemplands Farm, St James South Elmham, 31 August and five at Flixton GP the following day, while five Common Sandpipers were present at the latter site, 28 August.

Raptor highlights included a juvenile Peregrine hunting at Flixton GP, 26 August and Hobbies at Beccles Marshes, 27 August and Flixton GP the next day.

19 to 25 August

A count of waders at Burgh Castle Flats, 19 August, included one Whimbrel, three Greenshanks, one Green Sandpiper, one Common Sandpiper, 12 Avocets, 33 Black-tailed Godwits, 17 Curlews and 15 Redshanks. Upriver a Redshank was noted at Beccles Marshes, 21 August, while at Flixton GP, 25 August, a juvenile Greenshank, a Redshank, a Common Sandpiper and seven Green Sandpipers were present. Two Little Egrets were also recorded at Burgh Castle Flats, 19 August.

A late Cuckoo flew over the river at Puddingmoor, Beccles and a migrant Wheatear was at Carlton Marshes, 20 August, while a Spotted Flycatcher was seen at Beccles Marshes the following day. Nearby, three Stonechats were present at Barsham Marshes, 24 August. A sign of the changing seasons was a gathering of 100 Swallows feeding over meadows and resting on overhead wires at Weybread, 21 August.

Marsh Harriers were seen at Burgh Castle Flats, 19 August and Flixton GP, 20 August, while Buzzards were recorded at Beccles Marshes, 21 August and Worlingham (six), 23 August.

12 to 18 August

Green Sandpipers were present at Flixton GP (seven), 13 August and St James South Elmham (nine), 15 August, with Common Sandpipers noted along the riverbank at Beccles (two), 12 August and Flixton GP (two) the following day.

Single Hobbies were hunting at Worlingham, 12 August, and Flixton GP and Barsham Marshes, 13 August, while a Short-eared Owl was seen at Thorpe Marshes, Haddiscoe, 16 August.

Finally, a Yellow Wagtail roosted at St James South Elmham, 12 August.

5 to 11 August

Migrant waders included a Whimbrel at Burgh Castle, 7 August, and a Greenshank at Flixton GP, 10 August. Records of Green Sandpipers included ten at Flixton GP, 11 August, four at Earsham GP from 6 to10 August, and two at Redgrave Fen, 10 August, and one at Burgh Castle, 7 August, while two Common Sandpipers were present at Flixton GP, 10 August, and one at Oulton Dyke, 9 August. Little Egrets were seen at Earsham (four), 6 August, and Redgrave Fen (two), 10 August.

Other sightings of note included two Hobbies and a roost count of 12 Yellow Wagtails at Burgh Castle, 7 August.

29 July to 4 August

A count of waders at Burgh Castle Flats, 30 July, included two Common Sandpipers, three Whimbrel, 37 Avocets, four Black-tailed Godwits, two Redshanks and a Curlew. Further inland a Dunlin was present at Flixton GP, 29 July, with two Greenshanks at the same site the following day, while Green Sandpipers were recorded at Flixton GP (eight) and Earsham GP (three), 29 July, and Common Sandpipers at Flixton GP (three) and Oulton Marshes, 29 July, and Weybread GP, 31 July. Little Egrets were noted at Burgh Castle (nine), 30 July, and Weybread GP, 1 August.

Other highlights included a Hobby, along with a Grey Wagtail, at Hoxne weir, 4 August, and a singing Grasshopper Warbler at Oulton Marshes, 29 July.

A Red Kite flew north over Beccles late afternoon on 22 July, while Hobbies were seen at St James South Elmham, 27 July, and at Burgh St Peter the following day.

Finally, two Spotted Flycatchers were observed feeding young at North Cove SWT reserve, 26 July.

15 to 21 July

Notable waders included a Greenshank at Flixton GP, 17 July, with eight Green Sandpipers and three Common Sandpipers at the same site, 21 July.

Highlights at Beccles Marshes were a Turtle Dove, 15 and 17 July, two Spotted Flycatchers, 16 and 17 July, and three Barn Owls, 19 July.

8 to 14 July

Notable summer visitors included singing Grasshopper Warblers at Carlton Marshes, 8 July, and Oulton Marshes, 10 July, two Turtle Doves at Beccles Marshes and two Spotted Flycatchers at Earsham Hall, 12 July, with one Spotted Flycatcher at Beccles Marshes and a Hobby at Flixton Gravel Pits, 13 July. Two Nuthatches on a garden feeder at Brockdish, 11 July, was an unusual record for the valley.

1 to 7 July

The highlight of the week was undoubtedly the remarkable sight of 13 Wood Sandpipers at Beccles Marshes, 6 July. One had been present at Beccles Marshes earlier in the week from 3 to 5 July, with another at Flixton Gravel Pits, 7 July. Counts of Green Sandpipers peaked with ten at Flixton Gravel Pits, 1 July, and five at Beccles Marshes, 5 July, Greenshanks were present at Flixton Gravel Pits, 1 July, and Beccles Marshes (two), 6 July, and the first returning Common Sandpiper was seen at Flixton Gravel Pits, 7 July. Other notable waders included three Avocets at Burgh Castle Flats, 1 July, 33 Black-tailed Godwits and 17 Curlews at Burgh Castle Flats and a Redshank at Beccles Marshes, 3 July, three Curlews at Herringfleet, 5 July, and a Redshank at Oulton Marshes and a Snipe at Beccles Marshes, 7 July.

Hobbys were seen at Burgh Castle, 3 July, and Oulton Marshes (two), 4 and 7 July, with a Barn Owl at Beccles Marshes, 3 and 5 July.

Notable summer visitors included a Turtle Dove at Beccles Marshes, 3 and 7 July, a Spotted Flycatcher at the same site from 4 to 7 July, and a singing Grasshopper Warbler at Carlton Marshes, 6 and 7 July.

24 to 30 June

A Red Kite was seen at Redgrave Lake, 27 June, with another at Worlingham, 30 June.Single Hobbys were noted at Flixton Gravel Pits, 25 June, and Redgrave Lake, 27 June, and two Barn Owls were recorded at Beccles Marshes, 26 June.

Returning Green Sandpipers were recorded at Flixton Gravel Pits (ten) and Beccles Marshes (seven), 25 June, with a Redshank present at the latter site, 26 June, a Greenshank, two Green Sandpipers and two Redshanks, 28 June, and four Green Sandpipers, 29 June.

Notable summer migrants included two Turtle Doves at Beccles Marshes, 26 June, while Spotted Flycatchers were noted at Weybread Mill (two), 25 June, and near Earsham Mill (two), 30 June. A Grey Wagtail was seen at Weybread Mill, 25 June, and four juvenile Bearded Tits were present by the river at Castle Marsh, North Cove, 26 June.

17 to 23 June

A Short-eared Owl, together with a Barn Owl, were seen at Burgh Castle, 18 June, while a Red Kite and a Hobby were recorded at Earsham Gravel Pits, 23 June.

Barn Owls were noted at Burgh Castle, 10 June and Gillingham Marshes, 12 June, a count of 10 Curlews was made at Burgh Castle Flats, 10 June, and a flock of 12 Barnacle Geese flew north over Barsham Marshes, 13 June.

3 to 9 June

An adult male Hen Harrier at Carlton Marshes on the 6th was a very unusual June record. An Osprey flew over Worlingham fishing lakes, 4 June, and Barn Owls were noted at Beccles Marshes, 3 June, and Kessingland levels, 9 June.

Finally, a Redshank was seen at Beccles Marshes, 3 June, and a feral Ruddy Shelduck was present at Burgh Castle, 7 June.

27 May to 2 June

A Great White Egret was seen at Burgh Castle, 29 May, together with three Little Egrets, 10 Sandwich Terns (oddly heading high west), 80 Black-tailed Godwits, seven Avocets, four Curlews and four Redshanks.

Raptors included a Red Kite which flew east over Carlton Colville, 27 May, and a Hobby at Carlton Marshes, 30 May. Also at Carlton Marshes, a Short-eared Owl and two Barn Owls were seen on 27 May.

Notable summer visitors included single Turtle Doves at Beccles Marshes, 27 May, and in a garden at Ellingham, 1 and 2 June, while two Yellow Wagtails were noted at Carlton Marshes, 27 May, with one on the 28 and 30 May.

20 to 26 May

A Short-eared Owl was hunting at Carlton Marshes, 23 and 24 May, while two Barn Owls were noted at the same location, 24 May.

Single Common Sandpipers were seen at Flixton GP, 20 May, Weybread GP, 21 May, and along the river at North Cove, 25 May, while a Dunlin was present at Flixton GP, 20 May, and a Little Egret at Oulton Marshes the following day.

13 to 19 May

A female Merlin was hunting at Carlton Marshes, 13 May. Two Red Kites flew west over Castle Marsh, North Cove, 16 May, with one over the A146 at North Cove the following day. It was a good week for Hobbys with sightings at Castle Marsh (nine), Thorpe Marshes, Haddiscoe (two), Carlton Marshes (two) and Weybread, 13 May, Beccles Marshes, 15 May, Flixton (near Lowestoft), 18 May, and Earsham GP, 19 May. A Short-eared Owl was seen at Carlton Marshes, 13 May, with one at Castle Marsh, 13 and 19 May, and Burgh Castle, also 19 May, while Barn Owls were reported from Burgh Castle, 16 and 19 May, Carlton Marshes, 17 May, and Weybread GP, 18 May.

The first Spotted Flycatchers of the spring were seen at Carlton Marshes, 15 May, and at South Elmham Hall the following day. Other notable summer visitors included a Grasshopper Warbler at Fisher Row, Oulton, 13 May, Yellow Wagtails at Carlton Marshes, 13 May, and at nearby Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville, 16 May, and Turtle Doves at Flixton GP (two), 13 May, and Beccles Marshes, 15 May. A flock of 15 Crossbills flew south-west over Herringfleet, 17 May.

Waders at Burgh Castle on 19 May included eight Common Sandpipers, a Bar-tailed Godwit, a Curlew, and 15 Redshanks, while a single Redshank was seen at Beccles Marshes, 15 May. Additional Common Sandpipers were present at Oulton Marshes, 13 May, Beccles Marshes, 17 May, and Weybread GP (three), 18 May. Finally, Little Egrets were noted at Somerleyton Marshes (two), 13 May, and Beccles, 17 May.

6 to 12 May

Two Cranes circled high above Earsham Great Wood before flying off north-east at 2.30pm on 6 May, with one also seen on Castle Marsh, North Cove, 9 May.

A Nightjar was flushed from the road at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe, 11 May. Single Whinchats were seen at Castle Marsh, 9 May (male) and 10 May (female), while Wheatears were noted at Beccles Marshes (four), 6 May, Castle Marsh (seven), 9 and 10 May, and Barsham Marshes, 11 May. Late Fieldfares were recorded at Beccles Marshes (20) and Haddiscoe (eight), 6 May. Other highlights included Grasshopper Warblers at Fisher Row, Oulton, 8 May, and Castle Marsh, 9 May, Yellow Wagtails at Flixton GP, 6 May, and Carlton Marshes, 7 May, and Turtle Doves at Beccles Marshes, 6 May, and St James South Elmham, 11 May.

Notable waders included three Bar-tailed Godwits at Beccles Marshes, a Ringed Plover at Flixton GP and a Spotted Redshank at Burgh Castle, 6 May, two Dunlin at Flixton GP and a Redshank at Oulton Marshes, 7 May, and two Avocets at Aldeby shooting lakes, 10 May. A Green Sandpiper was present at Flixton GP, 6 May, while Common Sandpipers were noted at Flixton GP (two) and Beccles Marshes, 6 May, and Oulton Marshes, 7 May. Whimbrel passage continued with sightings at Beccles Marshes (52) and Burgh Castle Flats (34), 6 May, and Castle Marsh (three), 10 May.

A ringtail Hen Harrier flew north over Oulton Marshes, 7 May, and Red Kites were seen at Langmere Road, Rushall and Castle Marsh (two), 11 May. A Peregrine was hunting at Castle Marsh, 10 May, while seven Hobbys were present at the same site the following day. Short-eared Owls was seen at Haddiscoe Island, 6 May, Carlton Marshes, 8 and 12 May, Castle Marsh, 9 May, with Barn Owls noted at Castle Marsh, 9 May, and Carlton Marshes, 10 May.

29 April to 5 May

Migrant highlights included an Osprey north over Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe, 29 April, and another over Carlton Marshes, 2 May, a Black Tern at Weybread GP, 4 May, and a male Garganey at Castle Marsh, North Cove, 29 April to 1 May. An unusual sighting involved two Sandwich Terns which flew north over Haddiscoe Bridge, 3 May.

Whimbrel passage continued apace with peaks of 150 at Burgh Castle Flats, 2 May, and 20 at Castle Marsh, North Cove, 1 May, and lower numbers at Barsham Marshes (three), 29 April, and Beccles Marshes (12), 1 May. Greenshanks were present at Castle Marsh (three) and Aldeby shooting lakes, 29 April, with three Common Sandpipers at Oulton Marshes, 30 April, and a Green Sandpiper and a Common Sandpiper at Flixton GP, 5 May. Other notable inland waders included two Curlews at Castle Marsh, 29 April, with five Black-tailed Godwits at the same site the following day, and a Dunlin at Weybread GP and a Ringed Plover at Flixton GP, 5 May.

The male Hen Harrier was again seen at Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville, 2 May. Hobbys were recorded at North Cove, 30 April, Castle Marsh (two) and Gillingham Marshes, 1 May, and Oulton Church, 4 May, while a Peregrine was seen at Barsham Marshes, 29 April. Short-eared Owls were hunting at Castle Marsh (two), 29 April, and Carlton Marshes (two) the following day, with single Barn Owls at Weybread GP, 29 April, and Oulton Marshes, Gillingham Marshes and Castle Marsh, 1 May.

22 to 28 April

Notable migrants included a male Garganey at Castle Marsh, North Cove, 26 April (with two males on 28 April), an Arctic Tern at Weybread GP, 24 April, with three Black Terns there the following day, and four Ring Ouzels at Burgh Castle, 27 April.

The first Swifts arrived during the week, with three at Weybread GP, 24 April, and further early birds seen at Barsham Marshes, 25 April, and Oulton (15), Aldeby shooting lakes (nine) and Earsham GP (three), 26 April. Two Nightingales were singing by the B1062 at Barsham, 22 April, while a Wheatear was present on the nearby marshes, 25 April, and a Yellow Wagtail was seen at Castle Marsh the following day. Single Cuckoos were noted at Oulton Marshes, 22 April, Castle Marsh and Carlton Marshes, 26 April, and Barsham Marshes, 27 April, while singing Grasshopper Warblers were heard at Fisher Row, Oulton (three), 22 April, and Carlton Marshes (three) and Castle Marsh, 26 April.

Northward-bound Whimbrel were much in evidence with birds recorded at Beccles Marshes (eight), 22 April, Burgh Castle Flats (41) and Aldeby shooting lakes (five), 26 April, and Castle Marsh (42), 28 April. A Common Sandpiper was present at Oulton Marshes, 22 April, with another, together with a Greenshank, at Earsham GP, 26 April, and a Green Sandpiper at Castle Marsh, 28 April.

The first Hobby was seen at Beccles Marshes, 26 April, with the second at Castle Marsh the following day. The male Hen Harrier was again seen at Carlton Marshes, 26 and 27 April, while Buzzards were noted at Flixton GP (two) and Carlton Marshes (two), 22 April, and Earsham GP, 26 April. A Short-eared Owl was hunting at Carlton Marshes, 27 and 28 April, while Barn Owls were seen at Carlton Marshes, 22 April, and Barsham Marshes, 25 April.

15 to 21 April

The Great Grey Shrike was last seen at Carlton Marshes on 16 April. On the same day a Wheatear was present at Barsham Marshes, and the first Lesser Whitethroat of the spring was singing at Weybread GP. Other notable summer migrants included a Cuckoo at Carlton Marshes, 15 April, Sedge Warblers at Oulton Marshes (two) and Carlton Marshes, 16 April, and Beccles Marshes and Barsham Marshes, 21 April, a Whitethroat at Thorpe-next-Haddiscoe, 19 April, and a Reed Warbler at Burgh Castle, 21 April,

The long-staying male Hen Harrier was seen at Castle Marshes, North Cove, 15 April, and Carlton Marshes the next day, and a Peregrine was hunting at Carlton Marshes and Oulton Marshes, 16 April. Buzzards were noted at Billingford, 15 April, and Earsham (two), 20 April.A Short-eared Owl was hunting at Oulton Marshes, 21 April.

Migrant waders included two Avocets, six Ruffs and nine Black-tailed Godwits at Aldeby shooting lakes, and two Spotted Redshanks at Burgh Castle, 15 April, and six Whimbrels and two Curlews at Beccles Marshes, 21 April. Late Green Sandpipers were present at Flixton GP (two), 15 April, and Earsham GP (two), 20 April. Single Little Egrets were noted at Oulton Marshes, 16 April, and Denton, 20 April. Finally, a first-winter Kittiwake was present on the estuary at Burgh Castle, 15 April.

8 to 14 April

The Great Grey Shrike was seen again at Carlton Marshes on 8 and 14 April, and three male Ring Ouzels were briefly present at the same site on 12 April before flying off high east. The 11 April was a busy day for migrant passerines with the first Wheatear (three at Barsham Marshes), Reed Warbler (one at Carlton Marshes), Sedge Warbler and Whitethroat, (singles at Fisher Row, Oulton) and Yellow Wagtail (one flew over Fisher Row) of the year for the Valley all recorded. Before the end of the week the first Cuckoo (Oulton Marshes, 13 April), and Grasshopper Warbler (Fisher Row, 14 April) had also been noted. Two Whitethroats were present at Fisher Row, 12 April, while additional Sedge Warblers were recorded at Oulton Marshes, 12 April, and Carlton Marshes (four), 13 April. Singing Willow Warblers became more widespread with reports from Carlton Marshes (three) and Fisher Row (two), 8 April, Barsham Marshes, 9 April, Beccles Marshes, 12 April, and North Cove SWT reserve, 14 April. A count of seven Cetti’s Warblers was made at Oulton Marshes, 11 April. Kingfishers were noted at Flixton (near Bungay) and Weybread GP, 8 April, and Beccles Marshes, 12 April. A hybrid Carrion x Hooded Crow was present along Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, 10 April.

The male Hen Harrier was again seen at Carlton Marshes, 14 April, and an adult Peregrine was recorded at Oulton Marshes, 10 April. Buzzards were noted at Flixton GP (two), 8 April, Earsham GP and Carlton Marshes, 13 April, and Castle Marshes, North Cove (two), 14 April.Short-eared Owls were hunting at Carlton Marshes and Camps Heath Marshes, Oulton, 13 April, and Herringfleet Marshes the following day, while Barn Owls were recorded at Weybread GP, 11 April, and Worlingham, 14 April.

1 to 7 April

The Great Grey Shrike, found last week at Carlton Marshes, was back there on 3 April, and remained in the area until the end of the week. The first Swallow of the year was seen at Fisher Row, Oulton, 1 April, with two at Weybread GP the following day. A House Martin was present at Weybread GP, 3 April, together with six Swallows, while further Swallows were seen at Outney Common, Bungay (three) and Oulton Marshes on the same day. Migrant warblers included four Blackcaps at Carlton Marshes, 1 April, and the first singing Willow Warblers at Geldeston Dyke and Carlton Marshes, 6 April. A Bearded Tit was noted at Carlton Marshes, 1 April.

A group of four Cranes circled high above Castle Marshes, North Cove, late morning on 1 April, before drifting off north-east. Little Egrets were noted at Earsham GP, 2 April, and Oulton Marshes (two), 6 April. The first Common Tern returned to Weybread GP on 5 April.

Green Sandpipers were present at Flixton GP (four) and Carlton Marshes, 1 April, and Earsham GP (six) and Oulton Marshes, 6 April. A group of 12 Ruffs was feeding at Castle Marshes, 2nd April, with one at Earsham GP, 6 April.

25 to 31 March

A Great Grey Shrike was a notable find at Carlton Marshes, 27 March, and was still present the following day. Other migrant passerines included two Water Pipits at Oulton Marshes, 30 March, while the first Sand Martins (two) of the year were seen at Flixton GP, 25 March. A Cetti’s Warbler was singing at Beccles Marches, 27 March, with single Kingfishers noted at Carlton Marshes, 28 March, and Weybread GP, 31 March. A hybrid Carrion x Hooded Crow was present at Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, 31 March.

An impressive movement of raptors over Castle Marshes, North Cove, 26 March, included three Rough-legged Buzzards, seven Marsh Harriers and ten Buzzards. The following day four Red Kites flew over Oulton and Blundeston Marshes, while one flew south over Burgh Castle, 29 March, and north-east over Fritton, 30 March. Further Buzzards were noted at Redenhall (three) and Flixton GP (two), 25 March, and Carlton Marshes, Oulton Marshes and Somerleyton, 27 March. A single male Hen Harrier was probably responsible for sightings at Camps Heath Marshes, 25, 27 and 28 March, Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville, 26 March, and Carlton Marshes, 29 March, while two Peregrines were recorded at Blundeston, 28 March.Two Short-eared Owls were hunting at Carlton Marshes, 29 and 31 March, with one at Thorpe Marshes, Haddiscoe, 30 March, while a Barn Owl was noted at Beccles Marshes, 27 March.

Two adult Little Gulls were seen at Weybread GP, 24 March. Single Little Egrets were noted at Earsham and Carlton Marshes, 23 March, and Redenhall, 24 March.

Noteworthy waders included three Black-tailed Godwits at Earsham GP, 23 March, and two Ringed Plovers at Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville the following day. Single Green Sandpipers were present at Hemplands Farm, St James South Elmham, 22 March, and Earsham GP the following day.

Finally, a Water Pipit was seen at Oulton Marshes, 24 March.

11 to 17 March

Singing Chiffchaffs at Carlton Marshes and Fisher Row, Oulton, 11 March, Herringfleet Hills, 13 March, and Geldeston, 16 March, heralded the vanguard of what should be a major influx of this common summer visitor over the next few weeks. Crossbills were seen at Waveney Forest, Fritton (26) and Ashby Dell (25), 11 March, with one at Burgh Castle, 13 March, while five Tree Sparrows were again present at Barsham, 11 March. A Stonechat was seen at Oulton Marshes, 14 March, while Cetti’s Warblers are becoming more vocal with reports from Oulton Marshes (seven), 11 March, Carlton Marshes, 13 March, and Barsham Marshes (two), 16 March. Single Kingfishers were seen along the river at Barsham, Geldeston Dyke and Shipmeadow, 16 March, while two were noted at Weybread GP, 17 March.

A male Scaup was seen on the river at Outney Common, Bungay, 11 March, and a female Goldeneye was present at Weybread GP, 17 March. Five Brent Geese were recorded at Burgh Castle Flats, 11 March, while Barnacle Geese were noted at Barsham Marshes (six) and Harleston Marshes (three), 11 March.

4 to 10 March

The Rough-legged Buzzard was again seen at Haddiscoe Island, 10 March. A male Hen Harrier flew west over Oulton Marshes, 9 March, and a male and a ringtail were seen at Haddiscoe Island, 10 March. A first-winter Peregrine flew over Burgh Castle Flats, 9 March, and a Merlin was seen at Barsham Marshes, 10 March. A count of 19 Marsh Harriers was made at Haddiscoe Island at dusk on 10 March. Single Buzzards were noted at Fritton Decoy and Waveney Forest, Fritton, 8 March, and Somerleyton, 9 March. Short-eared Owls were hunting at Oulton Marshes, 4 and 6 March, Carlton Marshes (two), 6 and 8 March, and Haddiscoe Island (four), 10 March, while four Barn Owls were recorded at Barsham Marshes, 10 March, with another at Haddiscoe Island on the same day.

A flock of 25 Crossbills was present at Waveney Forest, 10 March. A Water Pipit was seen at Oulton Marshes, 4 March, a Lesser Redpoll was noted at nearby Fisher Row, 9 March, and five Tree Sparrows were recorded at Barsham, 10 March, together with a flock of 60 Yellowhammers. A female Blackcap visited a garden in Barnby from 5 to 7 March. Cetti’s Warblers were recorded at Oulton Marshes (two), 4 March, and Waveney Forest, 10 March, with Kingfishers noted at Barsham Marshes, 8 March, and Weybread GP (two), 9 March.

A Common Sandpiper was seen at Oulton Marshes, 6 March, while a Black-tailed Godwit was present there on 4 March, with two on 6 March. A count of waders at Burgh Castle Flats on 9 March, included 308 Curlews and 72 Redshanks, and a Spotted Redshank was present the following day. A Woodcock was noted at Fisher Row, 9 March.

A count of Cormorants flying north over Waveney Forest at dusk on 10 March reached 433, and two Little Egrets were present at Oulton Marshes, 4 and 9 March. A flock of 100 Wigeon remained at Oulton Marshes until 8 March, and three Brent Geese and 272 Teal were noted at Burgh Castle Flats, 10 March.

26 February to 3 March

Three of last week’s five Glossy Ibises were seen again on Haddiscoe Island opposite Burgh Castle, 27 and 28 February, although they were mobile. A Bittern was recorded at Castle Marsh, North Cove, 26 February and 3 March, and three Little Egrets were present at Oulton Marshes on the same day.

Passerine highlights included four Water Pipits at Flixton Marshes (near Lowestoft), 3 March.A singing Chiffchaff at Thorpe Marshes, 26 February, was a welcome reminder that spring is almost with us. The five long-staying Twite were still present at Burgh Castle, 1 March, with four, 2 and 3 March. Up to two Lesser Redpolls continued to visit a garden in Ellingham until 29 February. A count of 1,000 Starlings was made at Oulton Marshes, 2 March, and the evening roost of Pied Wagtails at St James South Elmham numbered 60 birds, 3 March. A Cetti’s Warbler was noted at Oulton Marshes, 3 March, while single Kingfishers were seen at Barsham Marshes, 27 February, and Weybread GP, 2 March.

A Spotted Redshank was seen at Burgh Castle Flats, 3 March. On 26 February, Green Sandpipers were present at Flixton GP (two), Earsham GP, Oulton Marshes, with a single Redshank at Flixton GP. A Woodcock was flushed from a garden at Oulton, 2 March.

A count of 132 Brent Geese was made at Burgh Castle Flats, 3 March. Two male Goosanders flew south over St James South Elmham and 510 Teal were present at Burgh Castle Flats on the same day, and high counts of Wigeon included 100 at Herringfleet Marshes, 26 February, and 100 at Oulton Marshes, 1 March. A feral female Red-crested Pochard was noted at Beccles Quay, 2 March.

19 to 25 February

A party of five Glossy Ibis was present at Berney Marshes on the morning of 23 February.During their stay they flew south-east over Burgh Castle before landing on the Norfolk bank of the river opposite the fort. A Great White Egret flew along Oulton Dyke towards Oulton Broad on the afternoon of 23 February, while Little Egrets were noted at Oulton Marshes (two) and Carlton Marshes, 24 February, and at Geldeston Marshes (four) the following day.

A Rough-legged Buzzard was present at Haddiscoe Island, 23 February, and a Peregrine was seen at Flixton (near Bungay), 19 February. Single Marsh Harriers were recorded at Oulton Marshes, 24 February, and Castle Marsh, North Cove the following day, while Buzzards were noted at Flixton (near Bungay, four) and Ashby, 19 February, Beccles Marshes, 20 February, North Cove SWT reserve (three), 21 February, and Earsham, 25 February. Short-eared Owls were hunting at Haddiscoe Island (three) and Carlton Marshes, 23 February, and Oulton Marshes (three), 25 February.

Water Pipits were much in evidence on 24 February, with five at Flixton Marshes (near Lowestoft), and singletons at Oulton Marshes and Herringfleet Marshes. A female Blackcap was present in a garden at Barnby, 25 February, and a Chiffchaff was seen at Oulton Marshes on the same day. The group of five Twite remained at Burgh Castle all week. Three Crossbills were noted at Waveney Forest, Fritton, 23 February, up to two Lesser Redpolls visited a garden in Ellingham throughout the week, with five also seen at North Cove SWT reserve, 25 February, and a flock of 40 Siskins was present at North Cove SWT reserve, 19 February. A Stonechat was present at Castle Marsh, 19 February, Cetti’s Warblers were recorded at Oulton Marshes, 24 February, and Castle Marsh (five), 25 February, and single Bearded Tits were noted at Burgh Castle, 24 February, and Oulton Marshes, 25 February.

A redhead Smew remained at Homersfield GP until 20 February, and was accompanied by four redhead Goosanders, 19 February. A count of 250 Wigeon was made at Oulton Marshes, 24 February. Six Bewick’s Swans were present at Oulton Marshes, 23 February, and a Brent Goose was noted at Burgh Castle, 25 February.

A Green Sandpiper and two Redshanks were present at Flixton GP, 19 February, with a Green Sandpiper also seen at Earsham GP, 24 and 25 February. Elsewhere, other notable waders included two Avocets at Burgh Castle and four Curlews and 50 Black-tailed Godwits at Beccles Marshes, 20 February, and a Curlew and 42 Black-tailed Godwits at Oulton Marshes and 24 Black-tailed Godwits at Burgh Castle, 24 February.

12 to 18 February

Sightings of redhead Smew involved three on the river at North Cove, 12 and 14 February, with two there on 16 February, one at Weybread GP to the end of the week, with two on 15 and 17 February, and two at Earsham GP and one at Homersfield GP, 17 and 18 February.Goosanders were seen at Weybread GP until 17 February, with a maximum of 30, 16 February, on the river at North Cove (two), 12 February, at Earsham GP with 18 on 17 February, and six the following day, and at Homersfield GP with one on 17 and 18 February.A male Goldeneye was present at Earsham GP and a female at Oulton Dyke, 13 February, while high counts of Wigeon included 500 at Oulton Marshes, 13 February, and 500 at Burgh Castle Flats the next day. Bewick’s Swans were present at Barsham Marshes with five, 15 February, and Beccles Marshes with seven, 16 February, decreasing to two, 18 February.

The freezing conditions forced a few waders inland with a Knot, eight Dunlin and two Redshank at Flixton GP, 12 February, and a Knot and three Dunlin at Earsham GP and a Curlew at Weybread GP, 18 February. By contrast, the first Oystercatcher was back at Weybread GP on the same day, indicating that spring is on its way. Two Green Sandpipers were also present at Earsham GP, 18 February, and counts of Black-tailed Godwits involved 15 at Castle Marsh, North Cove, 12 February, 79 at Oulton Marshes, 13 February, 60 at Beccles Marshes, 16 February, and 117 at the same site, 18 February. Records of Woodcock included nine at North Cove SWT reserve and two at Flixton GP, 12 February, with singletons at Ashby and Carlton Marshes, 13 February. Nine Little Egrets were noted at Earsham GP, 17 February, with one at Oulton Marshes on the same day.

The flock of five Twite at Burgh Castle first noted in mid-January was present all week. A Mealy Redpoll was seen at North Cove SWT reserve, 12 February, in a finch flock containing 20 Lesser Redpolls and 150 Siskins, with nine Lesser Redpolls also recorded at Fisher Row, Oulton the following day. Overwintering Blackcaps were attracted to a garden in Barnby, with a female, 13 February, and a male and female, 15 February. Kingfishers were noted at Weybread GP, 14 February, and Earsham GP (two), 17 February.

5 to 11 February

The new week dawned with the first snowfall of the winter and it remained cold throughout, with temperatures plummeting into negative double-figures overnight on 10 / 11 February.This triggered a major movement of wildfowl westwards, most notably of Smew (all redheads) and Goosanders (predominantly males). The first Smew arrived on 7 February, with four at Homersfield GP and one at Weybread GP, with two present at Weybread GP and one at Oulton Dyke the following day. The build-up of Goosanders began with 21 (including 15 males) at Earsham GP, 7 February, and 28 at Weybread GP the following day, and peaked with 30 (including 18 males) at Weybread GP and 23 (including 17 males) at Earsham GP, 9 February. Additional Goosanders were present at Homersfield GP (three) and Beccles Quay, 8 February, and Haddiscoe New Cut, 11 February, while redhead Goldeneye were noted at Homersfield GP (two) and Flixton GP, 10 February. Two Bewick’s Swans flew over Mendham Bridge, 7 February, and three were roosting on the ice at Weybread GP, 11 February.Significant counts of commoner wildfowl included 400 Wigeon at Oulton Marshes and 160 at Weybread GP, 5 February, with 490 Greylag Geese and 160 Tufted Duck at the later site, 7 February; 59 Pintail at Burgh Castle Flats, 6 February, and 930 Wigeon at the same location, 8 February.

A male Blackcap was seen in a member’s garden at Beccles, 9 February, and overwintering Chiffchaffs were recorded at Barsham water treatment works, 5 February, Belton, 8 February, and Oulton Marshes, 11 February. A Stonechat was present at Oulton Marshes, 5 and 11 February, 18 Bearded Tits and three Rock Pipits were seen at Burgh Castle, 6 February, and a Grey Wagtail was noted at Carlton Marshes, 8 February. Finally, Kingfishers were seen at Haddiscoe New Cut, 6 February, Earsham GP and Burgh Castle (two), 7 February, and Weybread GP (three), 9 February.

29 January to 4 February

A wedge of 30 Bewick’s Swans flew west over Castle Marsh, North Cove, 4 February, while four were present at Barsham Marshes from 31 January to 3 February. The four Tundra Bean Geese were back along Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, 31 January, five White-fronted Geese were seen at Oulton Marshes, 1 February, and eight Pink-footed Geese flew east over Carlton Marshes, 3 February. A male Goosander was present at Weybread GP, 2 and 3 February, while three, including two males, were seen at Earsham GP, 4 February, and three Goldeneyes (including two males) were present at Fritton Decoy, 1 February. A count of ducks at Geldeston on 2 February included 480 Teal, 120 Wigeon, 60 Gadwall and 18 Pintail, while 100 Wigeon were present at Oulton Marshes, 1 February, and 126 Wigeon and two Pintail at Weybread GP, 4 February. A female Red-crested Pochard was present at Beccles Marshes and a Ruddy Shelduck at Weybread GP, 3 February.

Two Rock Pipits were seen at Burgh Castle, 1 February, while sizeable flocks of Skylarks included 140 at Barsham Marshes, 3 February, and 100 at Ashby, the following day. Finally, Kingfishers were noted at Burgh Castle (two), 1 February, and Weybread GP (two), 2 February.

The four Tundra Bean Geese were present intermittently in the field along Burnt Hill Lane, 22 and 25 to 27 January, while six White-fronted Geese were seen at Oulton Marshes, 27 January, and 400 Pink-footed Geese at Haddiscoe Island, 22 January. The male Goldeneye at Earsham GP remained until 23 January. A feral Black Swan was seen at Shipmeadow, 22 January.

The Rough-legged Buzzard was again seen at Haddiscoe Island, 22, 26 and 27 January, while two Hen Harriers were noted at Waveney Forest, Fritton, 26 January. A Marsh Harrier was seen at Carlton Marshes, 28 January, while Buzzards were noted at Barsham Marshes, 22 January, Ashby, 23 January, and Castle Marsh, North Cove (two), 28 January. Short-eared Owls were recorded at Waveney Forest, 26 January, Oulton Marshes (three), 27 January, and Carlton Marshes, 27 and 28 January. A Barn Owl was seen flying over Harleston town centre, 26 January, while others were noted at Oulton Marshes, 27 January, and Carlton Marshes, 27 and 28 January.

The five Twite at Burgh Castle were again seen on 25 and 27 January, while two Crossbills were noted at Waveney Forest, 27 January, and a flock of six Lesser Redpolls and 20 Siskins was recorded at North Cove SWT reserve, 28 January. A Kingfisher was seen at Carlton Marshes, 27 January.

Notable waders included a flock of 200 Black-tailed Godwits at Geldeston, 22 January, with 113 the following day, two Green Sandpipers at Flixton GP, 22 January, and a Woodcock at North Cove SWT reserve, 28 January.

15 to 21 January

A Great White Egret flew from Fritton Marshes towards Belton early morning on 15 January, and was seen later in the day on Haddiscoe Island, while Little Egrets were noted at Earsham GP (three) and Belton Marshes (two), 15 January, and Fritton Marshes (four) and Oulton Marshes (two), 17 January.

The Rough-legged Buzzard was again present on Haddiscoe Island, 15 and 17 January. A single Peregrine was seen at Haddiscoe Island, 15 to 17 January, with three on 18 January, while one also flew over Weybread GP, 16 January. A ringtail Hen Harrier was recorded at Haddiscoe Island, 15 January, while counts of Marsh Harriers at the same location included four on 15 January and seven on 18 January. Buzzards were noted at Flixton (near Bungay), 15 January, and Haddiscoe Island, 17 January. Short-eared Owls were again much in evidence with records from Blundeston Marshes (two), Haddiscoe Island (two) and Thorpe Marshes, Haddiscoe, 15 January, Haddiscoe Island and Castle Marsh, North Cove, 16 January, and Oulton Marshes, 17 January, with Barn Owls seen hunting at Haddiscoe Island, 15 and 16 January, Mendham Marshes and Belton Marshes, 16 January, Geldeston Marshes and Oulton Marshes, 17 January, and Haddiscoe Island (three), 18 January.

Passerine highlights included five Twite at Burgh Castle, 15 to 19 January, eight Crossbills at Waveney Forest, Fritton, 15 January (with two, 16 and 17 January), ten Lesser Redpolls at Blundeston Marshes, 15 January, and two Stonechats at Oulton Marshes, 17 January. Six Bearded Tits were noted at Belton Marshes, 15 January, while Kingfishers were recorded at Earsham GP (two), 15 January, and Weybread GP, 16 January. A roost of 100 Pied Wagtails was recorded at Hemplands Farm, St James South Elmham, 15 January, and 2000 Rooks were counted in pre-roost gathering along Marsh Lane, Flixton (near Lowestoft) on the same day.

Notable waders included five Avocets at Burgh Castle, and two Redshanks and six Curlews at Belton Marshes, 15 January; five Ruffs at Shipmeadow, 14 Black-tailed Godwits at Geldeston, and a Green Sandpiper and an Oystercatcher at Fritton Marshes, 17 January, and 70 Black-tailed Godwits at Burgh Castle, 21 January. At the gravel pits, Redshank were present at Flixton GP (two) and Earsham GP, 15 January, while three Green Sandpipers were noted at Flixton GP on the same day. Finally, an adult Mediterranean Gull was seen at Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, 15 and 21 January.

8 to 14 January

High tides again caused the river to overtop its banks along the Shipmeadow / Geldeston stretch. The resulting flooded fields attracted a very impressive number of Ruff, with 60 present at Shipmeadow, 10 and 11 January; 25, 12 January, and eight, 13 January, and 20 at Geldeston, 12 January, and 23, 13 January. Black-tailed Godwits were also seen at Geldeston, with one, 10 January, eight, 12 January, and 30, 13 January. Flocks of Lapwings included 300 at Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville, 8 January, and 450 at Shipmeadow Marshes, 10 January. Other waders included a Dunlin at Peto’s Marsh and two Green Sandpipers at Earsham GP, 8 January. A Bittern was again seen at Castle Marsh, North Cove, 8 January, while Little Egrets were noted at Earsham GP (three), Bungay, Oulton Marshes, Herringfleet Marshes (three) and Fritton (four) on the same day.

Sightings of Bewick’s Swans included six at Beccles Marshes, 8 January, 17 at Shipmeadow Marshes, 10 January, with 16 the following day, 12 at Aldeby shooting lakes, 12 January, and eight at Geldeston Marshes, 13 January. White-fronted Geese were seen at Beccles Marshes (six), 8 January, and Oulton Marshes (six), 8 and 14 January, while a flock of 43 flew west over Carlton Marshes, 10 January. Other wildfowl included six Pintail and 261 Teal at Geldeston Marshes, 10 January, while two feral Black Swans were present at Geldeston, 10 January, with one at Shipmeadow, 12 January.

An overwintering Chiffchaff was seen at Fisher Row, Oulton, 8 January. A Nuthatch was an unusual find along Bath Hills Road, Earsham, 8 January. Three Lesser Redpolls were seen at Beccles Common, 8 January, and a Grey Wagtail at Weybread Sewage Works, 14 January. Finally, Kingfishers were noted at Earsham GP and Herringfleet Marshes, 8 January, and Barsham Marshes, 13 January.

1 to 7 January

The rarest bird of a very busy first week of the year was undoubtedly a Hooded Crow seen at Beccles Marshes, 4 January. Other notable passerines included a Common Redpoll present with a flock of 20 Lesser Redpolls at North Cove SWT reserve, 2 January, and another Common Redpoll present with three Lesser Redpolls and 30 Siskins along Marsh Lane, Worlingham, 4 January. Two Crossbills were noted at Herringfleet Hills, 2 January, and a Brambling was seen along the Angles Way, Flixton (near Lowestoft), 1 January. Five Bearded Tits were present at Burgh Castle, 1 January, while single Cetti’s Warblers were noted at Burgh Castle, 1 January; Barsham Marshes, 1 and 6 January, and Cove Dam Marshes, 4 January, and Stonechats at Haddiscoe New Cut (two) and Oulton Marshes, 6 January. A count of 60 Pied Wagtails was made at St James South Elmham, 2 January, a flock of 100 Skylarks was recorded at Peto’s Marsh, Carlton Colville, 7 January, and two notable gatherings of Yellowhammers were reported on the 5 January, namely 30 along Cut Throat Lane Beccles, and 23 at Barsham Marshes.

A flock of 300 Black-tailed Godwits and two Ruffs were present on flooded meadows at Geldeston Marshes, 5 January, with 115 Black-tailed Godwits counted following further flooding there the following day, and a further 72 Black-tailed Godwits, two Ruffs and 220 Lapwings recorded at nearby Shipmeadow Marshes. Waders at Burgh Castle on 1 January, included 20 Black-tailed Godwits, 15 Curlews, 25 Redshanks and 100 Dunlin, while a flock of 300 Lapwings flew over Peto’s Marsh and ten Redshank were at Camps Heath Marshes, 5 January. A Bittern was seen at Castle Marshes, 6 January, while Little Egrets were noted at Burgh Castle (four), 1 January, and Worlingham, 2 January.

The ten Bewick’s Swans at Beccles Marshes remained until the 5 January. A Brent Goose was seen at Burgh Castle, 1 January, while five White-fronted Geese were present at Oulton Marshes, 2 and 3 January, with six, 6 January, and a flock of 2000 Pink-footed Geese was present at Camps Heath Marshes, 5 January, increasing to 3000 the following day. Two Goldeneye were present at Weybread GP, 2 January, and 11 Pintail and 55 Gadwall at Geldeston and nine Pintail at Shipmeadow, 6 January. Feral wildfowl included a Black Swan at Geldeston, 6 January, and the long-staying Swan Goose and two White-cheeked Pintail at Weybread GP, 2 January.